Earlier we wrote about summer actives for kids in Santa Fe. In part 2 of our series, we are reviewing Albuquerque’s diverse summer camp and activity options for kids and teens.
Summer Day-Camps in Albuquerque
Did you know that our beloved Explora museum offers Summer Camps. Flexible schedules and age ranges might make this the right fit for your curious kids. Preschool through 8th grade can attend day camp June 5th through August 11th. Full day 9:00 am – 4:00 pm for $300.00 per week or half day options 9:00 am – 12:00 pm or 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm available for $150.00 per week. Discounts for Explora members.
There is quite literally something for everyone offered through UNM’s Youth Summer Camps and Classes. Offering over 150 day camps from Gemology to Introduction to Law camp and everything in between. Ages 5 -17. Camps range from 3 days to 7 days. Prices vary from $95.00 to $250.00.
Harwood Art Center in downtown Albuquerque offers Summer Art Camp for children grades 1st – 9th. Classes focused in ceramics, drawing, theater and much more. June 5th – July 28th, full days 9:00 – 4:00.
Affordable Daytime Family Fun
Of course there’s Explora, the Biopark, Tingley Beach and the Tram but here are a few that might be flying under your radar.
Petroglyph Park just south of Unser and Montano on the Westside of Albuquerque is an accessible family friendly hiking zone filled with world famous 700 year old rock drawings and the remnants of ancient volcanoes. Open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, parking lot fee is $2.00 or less. Enjoy a couple of hours out doors and a history lesson to boot.
If you just need to get the wiggles out and have some cash to spare Hinkle Family Fun Center will not disappoint. Way on the east side off of Indian School and Tramway you can easily spend the whole day here. Their specials include $30.00 all you can ride attraction pass for the day and reloadable cards to play arcade games. Drive go karts, ride bumper boats, play lazer tag and much more. We recommend going on a weekday to avoid long lines. A major perk is that you can leave and come back in the same day as many times as you’d like.
On a similar note nothing says voluntary early bed time like a trip to Gravity Park Trampolines, centrally located at the corner of Eagle Rock and San Mateo. Wall to wall trampolines and a foam pit that you can dive into will provide some serious air conditioned exercise for you and your littles this summer. Expect to pay between $13.00 and $20.00 a person for a couple of hours. Save time by pre filling out their online waiver at their website.
Free Family Fun in ABQ
A Park Above in Rio Rancho located off of Golf Course and Westside Boulevard. If you haven’t yet gone to this municipal treasure, don’t walk run! There’s something for everyone, but is especially geared towards young children. Splash in their water fountain, have a picnic on the rolling astro turf, and play on all kinds of new aged play ground equipment. The best part is it’s all free. This park does get very busy on weekends, be prepared to park a ways away.
All New Mexico residents can enjoy free admission to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science on the first Sunday of each month. Catch dinosaurs, the planetarium and hands on fun in the naturalist center. Located near Old Town.
Last but not least don’t forget to check out the Albuquerque Summer Fest schedules. Locations all over Albuquerque, on three coming Saturdays this summer. Catch Los Lobos, Chubby Checkers and STYX… yes Styx! Not only is there great live music but there are also tons of kid friendly activities like crafts and face paint. Bring some cash for vendors and a lawn chair or blanket.
There’s so many options for loads of entertainment at every price point for you Albuquerque families. Don’t spend your summer cooped up, enjoy!
As always, TLC Plumbing is here help with all your summer HVAC needs. We install and repair refrigerated air units as well as swamp coolers. Give us a call for a free estimate.